New Canada Research Chair in Chemistry at BU Announced

March 13, 2012

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

BRANDON, MB — A Brandon University alumnus, Dr. Martin Lemaire will be returning to his alma mater as the newest Canada Research Chair (CRC) on faculty. Currently teaching chemistry at Brock University, beginning May 1, 2012, Dr. Lemaire will be the CRC in Molecular Spintronic Materials for the next five years in Brandon.

“One of the most exciting new fields underway in science is the development of molecular spintronics, in which the spin property of electron particles is used in conjunction with electrical charge in nanoscale devices that will revolutionize the world’s electronics industry,” Dr. Lemaire recently wrote.

He explained that his research focuses on the preparation of new multifunctional materials, created by chemical synthesis of molecular precursors. These feature two or more typically disparate properties, like electrical conductivity and magnetism, in which one property is used to control the other. From these molecular precursors, he will generate “processable” polymers and initiate efforts toward functional devices.

“I am thrilled to be returning to Brandon University. This position represents a great opportunity for me to give something back to the institution and the community. I am really looking forward to growing with the university and working with my colleagues to help foster a strong and competitive research environment in science!” said Dr. Lemaire. “I am also delighted to have the opportunity to raise my two children in Brandon.”

Dr. Lemaire obtained a PhD in 2002 at the University of Victoria and followed it with two post-doctoral appointments at North Carolina State University and Memorial University of Newfoundland. All of his research has been focused on the preparation of new molecule-based
magnetic materials. Previously, he also taught one year each at Colby College in Maine and Whitman College in Washington State as a Visiting Professor.

About Dr. Lemaire’s arrival, Brandon University’s Vice-President Academic and Provost, Dr. Scott Grills said: “Brandon University is indeed fortunate to have Dr. Lemaire joining our Faculty of Science. The Canada Research Chair’s program has been very important to universities as it has allowed for access to federal funds to attract and retain excellent researchers. It is a pleasure to welcome Dr. Lemaire back to Brandon University. His work will benefit our students and our community.” -30-